SCALING: WHAT, WHY, HOW AND WHEN.

Scaling is one of the most common dental procedures performed. In this blog, Dr. Anitha Alageshan from Zen Dental and Health Care will explain why it is the most important treatment to be undertaken regularly in order to have healthy gums and healthy teeth.

WHAT IS SCALING?

Scaling or cleaning of teeth is a procedure of removing dental plaque, calculus (tartar) and biofilm.

IS SCALING REALLY NECESSARY?

In order to have healthy gums, it is mandatory to get the procedure done once in 6 months. This two times a year protocol helps your dentist to have a closer watch on your overall oral health as well!

WHY SHOULD YOU GET SCALING DONE?

Deposits seen on tooth surface and underneath gum line

Bleeding gums

Bad breath

Gum line receding

Inflamed gums

WHY SHOULD POLISHING BE DONE AFTER SCALING PROCEDURE?

Polishing is a procedure that is done using polishing paste and a polishing brush immediately after scaling. This is done to help remove stains and smoothen the tooth’s surface.

IS IT GOOD TO DO SCALING OF TEETH?

A common myth exists that if you do regular scaling of your teeth your enamel erodes which may cause sensitivity. This cannot be farther from the truth! A Scaler is used with minute ultrasonic vibrations. This basically helps to break down the solidified tartar and plaque which may be otherwise difficult to remove with regular brushing.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING THE PROCEDURE?

Some sensitivity of the teeth will be experienced during the procedure which is transient in nature. However, if you have exposed tooth roots, this sensitivity may last up to two days. Sometimes bleeding from the gums may happen during the procedure. This is normal since the deposits will be removed from underneath the gum line.

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET YOUR TEETH CLEANED?

To thoroughly perform a dental cleaning procedure on a patient, it will take approximately 30 minutes to one hour.

CAN YOU EAT AFTER GETTING YOUR TEETH CLEANED?

Usually, after polishing is completed, Fluoride is applied. This helps to prevent cavities. After the Fluoride treatment, it’s best to wait at least 30 minutes before eating and drinking.